This fall after a successful crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo we were able to fund 13 dreams of young women nationwide. Some girls used the funding to help pay for school books, another girl purchased a camera, and others used it to study abroad.

For the next few months we will be catching up with the 1000 Dreams recipients and sharing their stories. This week we are following up with Caitlyn a future Occupational Therapist. 

How did you use the 1000 Dreams Grant?

I used my 1000 Dreams Grant to purchase textbooks for my current semester. Since I am completing my final semester I am enrolled in my senior capstone course, which ensures that I am well qualified to earn my bachelor’s degree. I am also finishing a course for my minor and taking a few other things needed to finish up. Not having to pay for books this semester was amazing, because I am starting graduate school this summer and that will bring a whole new round of expenses. This allowed me crucial time to save money for graduate school.

What advice do you have for other young women looking to go for their dreams?

It’s sometimes great to keep your options open, but it’s equally important to commit to something and stop at nothing to make that happen. Not knowing exactly what you want is normal at this stage in life, but it’s important to be moving in a positive direction. The less time you waste trying to please other people and worrying about what you are missing out on the better.  If you’ve decided on a dream, stop at nothing to get there. It’s also okay to ask for help along the way!

Any setbacks? How did you get around them?

Everyone will have setbacks. At one point I was questioning the path I had chosen for my life and wondering if maybe I had made some wrong decisions along the way. My advice is to find a quotation or motto that keeps you moving in a positive direction and gives you restoration. Mine is part of a quote from Peter Pan by J.M Barrie “…to have faith is to have wings”. This reminds me that no matter what is happening if you believe that it will get better you will find a way to carry on. Also, just stay calm. The worst thing to do in a setback is work yourself into hysterics. Believe me, everything will be okay in the end. If you have a strong religious faith, utilize it. If not, find another method of release and calm.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

I am ready to take on graduate school. However, in the meantime my goal is to enjoy some of life’s short-term simple pleasures. College has flown by and while it’s a time of transition and change to be preparing yourself for the “real world” it should also be enjoyed in the moment. It’s easy to lose track of the now thinking and planning your ENTIRE future. Don’t let that happen. Find something to enjoy about each day. As a college athlete, I find that my practice is a great time to clear my head and cherish. I’m not going pro in athletics, and that’s okay. Sometimes you have to remind yourself to indulge in things that make your healthy in mind, body, and spirit right now. Long term goals are amazing, but don’t let them take over your entire life!

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